Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has played down his team's Premier League title chances, insisting they are not yet ready to compete at the top despite a crucial 2-1 victory over Brentford at Stamford Bridge on Sunday night.

Goals from Marc Cucurella and Nicolas Jackson sealed the win for the Blues, keeping their momentum alive in what has become an intriguing title race. Chelsea’s victory came on a day when league leaders Liverpool were held to a 2-2 draw by Fulham, Arsenal drew 0-0 with Everton, and Manchester City suffered a 2-1 defeat to Manchester United.

These results tightened the title race, with Chelsea now just two points behind Liverpool, who have a game in hand. The Blues sit comfortably in second place, four points ahead of Arsenal and a significant seven points clear of fifth-place Manchester City.

However, Maresca was quick to temper expectations, cautioning fans against premature title talk. Speaking in his post-match interview, as quoted by Fabrizio Romano, the Chelsea boss said:

"For me, we are NOT ready. You can talk about the title, and the fans can dream about the title—absolutely. But if you ask me, I will tell you what I think. We’re not ready, but we are happy the fans can dream."

Maresca’s honest assessment highlights his focus on steady progress rather than lofty ambitions, even as Chelsea finds itself firmly in the mix at the top of the Premier League standings.

With a crucial stretch of fixtures ahead, Chelsea fans will be watching closely to see if their team can defy Maresca’s caution and mount a serious title challenge.